June 11, 1925 – April 14, 2010

Gordon Keith Merrifield, a longtime resident of Waukesha, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family Wednesday, April 14, 2010, at the age of 84. He was born June 11, 1925, in Elkhorn, and grew up in Delavan.

He was the beloved husband and best friend of Carol (nee Scharnell) for almost 47 years; dear father of Judy (Harry) Wagner, Jeanne (Dave) Graves and Charlene (Jim) Yauch; and grandfather of Kim, Kerry, Becki and Allie. He is also survived by his step-grandchildren, Nicole and Chris; great-grandchildren, step great-grandchildren, other relatives and many friends.

Keith was preceded in death by his mother, Hyla (nee White); three sisters, Jean Scott, Shirley Beck and Beverly DuCharme; and twin great-granddaughters.

Keith served with the U. S. Navy on a destroyer escort, the William Seiverling, in the Pacific during World War II. He spent his career in retail, serving as store manager for Laacke & Joys for many years and retiring as store manager for Hall’s Saddlery.

Keith was the founder and director of the Brookfield Highlands Ambassadors of Harmony Men’s Chorus, and previously the Director of Sweet Adelines in Janesville, Waukesha and Milwaukee. Keith was also the director of barbershop choruses in Jefferson, Waukesha and Milwaukee. He successfully competed with several of these groups at international competitions and was a member of the Janesville Men’s Chorus that won first place at the International Barbershop Contest in 1955.

Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the noon memorial service Saturday, May 1, at Southminster Presbyterian Church, 200 Richard St., Waukesha. Private interment will be held at Wisconsin Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorials appreciated to Southminster Presbyterian Church Music Fund.

Church and Chapel Funeral Home is serving the family. For more information, call 827-0659 or visit www.churchandchapel.com to view the online obituary or leave condolences.